Moko in Vogue

A French fashion designer’s use of moko in advertisements for his latest collection has caused a stir in NZ. Jean Paul Gaultier’s campaign shots, featuring male and female models with Maori facial tattooing, have appeared in the European issues of Vogue. “It’s definitely Maori, no question about that,  said Victoria University business lecturer Aroha Mead. “I take the line that if copying is flattery, tell that to Coca-Cola and Harrods, who rigorously protect their designs.” Creative New Zealand’s Maori arts board recently established toi iho, a registered trademark used to promote and sell Maori arts and crafts. Toi iho allows for partnerships with non-Maori, but a spokeswoman said there had been no contact with Gaultier.